Jara believes Bonitto, who is averaging a team-high 18 points per game, is developing into an elite player. “Aaron is very athletic and has a tremendous work ethic,” Jara said. “He has a knack for taking it to the hole and finishing, and creates his own shots from the perimeter. If he keeps working hard and gets stronger on defense, he could be one of the top players in the county.”

In the victory over Clarke, the Spartans trailed for much of the game and entered the final eight minutes facing a five-point deficit. A steal and lay up by Martelli with just 35 seconds remaining gave North the victory. Martelli finished with nine points, five boards, and four assists.

Jara hopes the offensive output will improve. “We’re playing tough defense and staying in games, but we’re not scoring enough,” Jara said. “We need to put the ball in the basket, especially in the second half of games. Hopefully, things are starting to come together.”